The emperor rested a hand on Elian's shoulder, his expression softer than Elian had ever seen it. "I'm grateful for you, Elian," he murmured, his voice carrying a weight Elian could feel deep in his bones. "And I know that Rena and Ireen would be, too."
Emotion flooded Elian's chest, tightening his throat as he struggled to respond. "Thank you, Your Majesty," he managed, his voice barely above a whisper. "It means everything to hear that."
The Emperor nodded, a quiet smile touching his lips as he looked from Elian to Izan, his sons in heart and legacy. "Goodnight, my sons," he said, his tone reverent, as if bestowing a final blessing. He lingered a moment longer, his gaze steady and full, as if memorizing the sight of them together. Then, with a nod, he turned and left.
As the heavy door to Elian's chambers closed, leaving only Izan and Elian bathed in the gentle glow of the room, an unspoken calm settled between them.
